Planning a road trip through Upstate New York? Whether you’re cruising the Adirondacks, relaxing near the Finger Lakes, or chasing waterfalls in the Catskills, there’s nothing quite like exploring this region with a camper or RV. But before you hit the road, make sure your rig is fully equipped with the best camper accessories to keep you safe, connected, and comfortable.
From signal boosters to solar panels and compact cooking gear, these smart additions can make all the difference between a good trip and a great one. Here’s what you’ll want on board.
RV Cell Phone Signal Boosters
Cell service in Upstate NY can be spotty at best-especially when you’re far from main roads or nestled in a forest. One of the many useful upgrades you can make are RV cell phone boosters. These devices capture weak outdoor signals and amplify them inside your camper, helping to eliminate dropped calls and speed up data.
The weBoost Drive Reach RV is a popular option for road trippers, especially those who work remotely or stream content on the go. It supports multiple devices and all major U.S. carriers. Whether you’re parked in a remote campsite or cruising through winding mountain roads, a booster can keep you connected when it matters most.
Portable Solar Panels
Campgrounds in Upstate NY range from full-service RV resorts to primitive boondocking sites with no hookups. If you plan to spend time off-grid, a set of portable solar panels will keep your batteries charged without relying on noisy generators.
Look for foldable or suitcase-style panels with built-in charge controllers for easy setup. Models from brands like Renogy or Zamp Solar are traveler favorites and work well with many RV battery systems. With the long summer daylight hours Upstate offers, you’ll have plenty of juice to run lights, fans, and even charge small electronics.
Compact Grills
After a long hike or paddle across a lake, few things beat a hot, grilled meal at your campsite. A portable propane grill is a must-have camper accessory for quick, delicious meals without the mess of a campfire.
Grills like the Weber Q1200 or Camp Chef Portable Grill Box are compact yet powerful, with even heating and reliable ignition. Pair it with a collapsible prep table and a good set of grilling tools, and you’ve got an outdoor kitchen that rivals what’s at home.
Leveling Blocks
If you’ve ever spent the night sliding off your mattress because your camper wasn’t level, you already know why leveling blocks matter. Many campgrounds in Upstate NY are carved into hillsides or nestled among roots and rocks-not always RV-friendly terrain.
Invest in a set of interlocking leveling blocks and a small bubble level to make setup a breeze. They’re light, inexpensive, and can double as jack supports or chocks when needed.
Water Filtration
You might be staying at scenic campgrounds, but that doesn’t mean you should trust the tap. A reliable water filter system makes sure you’re always drinking clean, safe water-whether you’re filling up from a campground spigot, a rest stop, or a rustic mountain tap.
Systems like the Camco TastePURE or Clear2O RV Filter remove sediments and reduce chlorine taste, while more advanced models even protect against bacteria and viruses. Staying hydrated is key, and filtered water just makes it easier and safer.
LED String Lights
Nothing sets the mood at a campsite like soft, glowing lights strung around your awning or picnic table. Battery-powered or solar LED string lights add ambiance, help you see in the dark, and make your site more inviting.
Go for weather-resistant models with dimmable settings so you can adjust brightness after dark. They pack down small, don’t draw much power, and make your setup stand out without attracting every bug in the area.
Foldable Camp Chairs
After hours of driving or exploring, you’ll want a place to kick back and take it all in. High-quality foldable camp chairs with padded seating and cup holders are a game-changer for comfort.
Look for chairs that are lightweight but sturdy-models with breathable mesh backs are great for hot days, while zero-gravity recliners are ideal for stargazing in the Adirondacks or watching the sun set over Lake George.
The Bottom Line: Gear Up, Then Go Explore
Upstate New York offers some of the many stunning camper-friendly scenery in the country. But to fully enjoy your road trip, it pays to be prepared. A few smart accessories-like an RV cell phone booster, solar panels, and portable cooking gear-can dramatically improve your experience on the road and at your site.
So before you pack up the cooler and set your GPS, double-check your gear. With the right tools on board, you’ll spend less time troubleshooting and more time soaking up the best of the Empire State-one scenic mile at a time.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and seek professional advice where necessary.
